Perplexity AI looks to challenge Google, Microsoft with AI-driven search engine; know how

tech.hindustantimes.com:

California-based startup Perplexity AI, just a year into its journey, has secured $73.6 million in a series B funding round, bringing its total funding to $100 million. The investment comes from IVP, NEA, Databricks, Nvidia, Bessemer Venture Partners, and Kindred Ventures, with notable tech figures like Jeff Bezos and Nat Friedman joining as backers. What sets Perplexity AI apart is its ambition to revolutionise knowledge discovery through the Perplexity AI-native search engine, challenging industry giants Google and Microsoft. The startup, valued at over $500 million, plans to utilise the funding to enhance its AI-driven search engine capabilities. Perplexity co-founder and CEO is the Aravind Srinivas.

In a bid to outperform Google and Microsoft, Perplexity integrates web indexes with AI models for a seamless user experience. The platform aims to eliminate the need for users to sift through various links, ads, or sponsored posts, offering a conversational experience with precise information, VentureBeat reported.

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The company says, "Perplexity's answer engine is a conversational search engine that uses large language models (LLMs) to provide accurate answers to complex questions. Unlike traditional search engines, Perplexity AI offers a chatbot-like interface that allows users to ask questions in natural language."

Perplexity enhances this experience by allowing users to explore details through relevant sources and citations. Emphasising accuracy and transparency, the startup aims to replace the tedious process of information retrieval with a more efficient way, promoting accelerated learning and research.

Despite its significant growth, challenges lie ahead. Notably, Perplexity